Starbucks Malaysia’s Kopi Creator Kolektif Spotlights Homegrown Creative Talent

This World Creativity and Innovation Day, Starbucks Malaysia has announced the Kopi Creator Kolektif (KCK) Class of 2026. unveiling ten emerging Malaysian artists, five musicians, and five filmmakers, selected for a creator development programme featuring industry‑led masterclasses and mentorship. The finalists will present their original music and film teasers on 16th May at Starbucks Reserve IOI Mall Damansara, where one winner from each cohort will receive a prize valued at RM10,000. 

Kopi Creator Kolektif is a creative platform by Starbucks Malaysia designed to support young Malaysian talent by connecting emerging musicians and filmmakers with creative collectives and industry mentors. Rooted in Starbucks “Third Place” philosophy, the programme serves as an incubator for creative growth, with Starbucks coffeehouses providing the space where ideas can be developed, shared, and discovered.  

“At Starbucks, we see our coffeehouses as the ‘Third Place’, a welcoming space where Malaysians can connect, exchange ideas, and feel part of something larger than themselves,” said Zakiah Hanim Md Zaki, Director of Marketing & Loyalty, Berjaya Starbucks Coffee Company Sdn Bhd. “It’s inspiring to see Malaysia’s creative talents come together through Kopi Creator Kolektif. We’re proud to support a campaign rooted in originality and connection by opening our coffeehouses for Malaysian stories to be discovered, supported and celebrated.” 

“A thriving creative culture relies on having room for new voices to emerge, experiment, and grow,” said Adam Zainal, Director, mentor for the Film Cohort, and an alumnus of Multimedia University’s Faculty of Cinematic Arts. “Platforms like KCK matter because they create that room, not only by giving young filmmakers a platform to share their work, but also by allowing audiences and communities to discover the perspectives shaping the next generation of Malaysian storytelling.”

The journey of the KCK Class of 2026: Empowering local musicians and filmmakers by connecting creativity and community

The finalists will go on to participate in a curated development programme designed to support their creative journey from craft to showcase. For the music cohort, Breaking Music will lead the programme with masterclass sessions on their personal brand identity and original songwriting, helping finalists strengthen both artistry and live readiness. Music finalists will also receive access to studio time and industry-grade equipment to help develop, refine, and rehearse their material for the showcase. 

For the film cohort, Weekend Boys Studio and Multimedia University (MMU) Faculty of Cinematic Arts will support finalists through mentorship and guided development sessions, focusing on strengthening storytelling and production craft from concept to screen. 

“We’re proud to be part of this campaign because opportunities like this can make a real difference for emerging artists,” said Isaac Ravi, mentor for the Music Cohort, co-founder of Breaking Music. “Giving back to the creative community matters to us, and it’s a privilege to work with these five finalists over the coming weeks. There’s already a lot of promise in this Class of 2026, and I’m excited to see how they develop as they work towards the chance to record their own EP.”

Celebrating the Class of 2026 with a live showcase at Starbucks Reserve IOI Mall Damansara  

On 16th May, the KCK Showcase will take centre stage at Starbucks Reserve IOI Mall Damansara. At the showcase, each music finalist will perform at least one original song, while film finalists will premiere a teaser from the film concepts they pitched. This will be a moment of discovery where Malaysians can encounter new voices, and creators can step forward with work they have developed through the programme. The winning musician will receive a four-track EP recording deal, while the winning filmmaker will receive the production of their original short film, with each prize valued at RM10,000. 

KCK debuted in late 2025 with intimate live music sessions in a Starbucks coffeehouse featuring 13 homegrown talents such as Amanda Imani, An Honest Mistake, and RESORT. Today, the platform is expanding beyond music to feature aspiring filmmakers, and creating more ways for Malaysians to discover and champion local creativity in Starbucks coffeehouses. 

Through Kopi Creator Kolektif, Starbucks Malaysia continues to create space for Malaysians to pursue their passions, be inspired, and connect with their local community – whether through song, film, or a cup of coffee. 

For more information about Kopi Creator Kolektif Class of 2026 as well as the live showcase, visit Starbucks Malaysia’s official Instagram.

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Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur Appoints Eric Fettke As Executive Chef, Ushering In A New Culinary Chapter

Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Fettke as Executive Chef, effective February 2026. In this role, he will oversee the hotel’s culinary operations across its restaurants, banquet facilities, and in-room dining, guiding the next phase of its culinary evolution.

With over 27 years of international culinary experience, Chef Fettke has built a distinguished career across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Most recently, he served as Executive Chef at Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa in Muscat, where he directed culinary operations across three luxury hotels with 15 dining outlets and large-scale banqueting facilities.

Recognised for delivering exceptional dining experiences while driving operational excellence, he combines culinary artistry with strong business and financial acumen, shaped by leading diverse teams in complex international environments.

Among his notable achievements, Chef Fettke spearheaded IHG’s Culinary Task Force during the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in South Korea, where he oversaw the full Food & Beverage operations for the hosting hotel group – ensuring seamless execution at a world-class level.

Chef Fettke’s culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in both heritage and experience. Raised in a German–South African household, his passion for cooking began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he developed an early appreciation for seasonal produce and intuitive cooking. Today, his approach blends European precision with global influences, guided by a strong commitment to seasonality, sustainability, and a farm-to-table philosophy.

At Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, Chef Fettke will focus on refining the hotel’s culinary identity, elevating ingredient quality, and enhancing consistency across all dining experiences. His vision centres on modernising offerings while respecting the hotel’s legacy, alongside fostering a culture of growth, curiosity, and excellence within the culinary team.

“I am delighted to join Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur and be part of such an iconic hotel. My culinary journey across Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia have shaped my perspective, allowing me to draw inspiration from diverse cultures, traditions, and cuisines. This experience has guided my creative approach while deepening my respect for culinary heritage. As I take on this role, I look forward to building on the strong legacy of the hotel and working with the team to create meaningful and memorable dining experiences for our guests.” said Chef Fettke.

General Manager Mr. Daniel Kaeflein added, “We are delighted to welcome Executive Chef Eric Fettke to Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur. His remarkable culinary journey, spanning Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, brings a rare global perspective shaped by diverse cultures, traditions and cuisines. This breadth of experience, combined with his creative vision and deep respect for culinary heritage, aligns perfectly with our commitment to excellence. As Chef Eric joins our team, he builds upon the legacy of distinguished Executive Chefs who have shaped this iconic hotel, and we are excited about the opportunities his arrival brings to our team.”

His appointment comes at a significant time as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, presenting new opportunities to showcase the country’s vibrant culinary landscape. Under Chef Fettke’s leadership, Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur will continue to evolve its dining experiences – celebrating local heritage while delivering refined, contemporary cuisine.

For dining reservations and inquiries, contact +603 2786 2378 or email enquiries email at dining.kl@shangri-la.com.

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(Video) Mike Myers Becomes “Shrek” To Honour Eddie Murphy With Lifetime Achievement Award

It’s no surprise that to honour comedy icon Eddie Murphy for his many achievements in the entertainment industry, one would have to go above and beyond. Thankfully, it seems his “Shrek” co-star and fellow funnyman Mike Myers clearly got the memo.

On 18th April 2026 (Saturday), tons of Hollywood legends gathered to honour Eddie with the AFI Life Achievement Award. The award is the highest honour bestowed by the American Film Institute. Among the previous recipients are director Francis Ford Coppola and actresses Nicole Kidman and Julie Andrews.

SOURCE: TWITTER (@extratv)

SOURCE: TWITTER (@DiscussingFilm)

As per the ceremony’s customs, several of Eddie’s fellow actors and comedians shared remarks to commemorate and pay tribute to the star, including Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock. However, it was Mike Myers who sparked the most laughs during the evening, walking onto the stage as Shrek, donning green makeup with ogre ears on the side of his head.

Mike and Eddie worked together on the DreamWorks franchise, with Mike voicing the titular Shrek and Eddie voicing his friend and partner-in-crime, Donkey. During his speech, the 62-year-old praised his co-star for his work on the franchise, saying, “None of ‘Shrek’’s success could have happened without Eddie Murphy.”

SOURCE: TWITTER (@ToonHive)

@chrisgards

#MikeMyers dressed up like #shrek to honor #EddieMurphy

♬ original sound – Chris Gardner

The actor continued, saying, “Eddie’s character, Donkey, is a masterpiece, as is every character Eddie has created over the years.” Mike also called Eddie “one of the greatest”, adding that he’s honoured to have worked alongside the comedian. He then concluded his tribute, saying, “It is my absolute honour to say and to be able to tell my kids that I got to work with Eddie Murphy.”

Eddie’s AFI tribute will premiere as a special on Netflix on 31st May 2026 (Sunday), with director Spike Lee serving as award presenter and host. At the same time, “Shrek 5” is slated to premiere this July.

Sources: Entertainment Weekly, Twitter

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ASICS SportStyle Unveils ‘The Lab’ — An Immersive Pop-Up Where Innovation Meets Comfort

ASICS SPORTSTYLE unveils The Lab: An immersive, laboratory-inspired pop-up space that brings the ASICS’ comfort story to life. Housed at the Parade Square within One Bangkok from 4th to 5th April 2026, among the highlights were cutting-edge innovations alongside timeless favourites on display such as the ASICS SportStyle GEL-NYC™ 2.0, GEL-CUMULUS ™ 16, GEL-KINETIC™ 2.0 and more.

Mr. Yogesh Gandhi, Managing Director of ASICS Asia, said, “We’re encouraged by the strong growth of the SportStyle category in Thailand, which reflects a clear shift in consumer preferences toward combining style with everyday movement. The launch of our pop-up and campaign is an exciting milestone as we celebrate and connect with the community driving this trend.”

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Step into The Lab for More Energy to Move Body and Mind

Trial the GEL-NYC 2.0 shoes exclusively available on-site and experience its comfort through curated activities from dance workshops to art and photo walk happening over the course of 4th & 5th April. Discover the ASICS Code of Comfort: A SportStyle regional campaign, featuring eight unique voices from across the SEA region, each sharing their personal take on comfort.

The campaign features beloved “Amah” – Taew Usa Semkhum, lead actress from ‘How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’, alongside a diverse cast from across the region—each offering a unique perspective on comfort, redefined through ASICS SportStyle. Visitors can also create their own bespoke scent for a Sound Mind with PAÑPURI, and additionally build their own lab pass holder with charms available exclusively at The Lab.

Mr. Trin Thanakitthiwara, Country Manager of ASICS Thailand, adds, “‘The Lab” creates a unique space for us to deepen our connection with the community, while expressing The Comfort Code through experiences that resonate naturally with modern lifestyles.”

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The Lab’s Two Main Hubs:

The Discovery Hub

Houses the latest SportStyle shoe and apparel highlights, ranging from GEL-NYC™ 2.0 to GEL-CUMULUS ™ 16, GEL-KINETIC™ 2.0, as well as the all-new ASICS x CARNIVAL® GEL-KAYANO 12.1 “PHRA NAKHON” – the fourth collaboration with Carnival, a Thai streetwear brand known for its role in shaping the local sneaker and street culture scene.

Inspired by the identity of Bangkok’s historic district known for its blend of traditional culture and modern street energy, this collaboration shoe is designed under the concept “Hidden Layers of Phra Nakhon” — resulting in a unique take on the ASICS Gel-Kayano 12.1 that reflects the rhythm of urban life, balancing contemporary design with signature comfort. In addition, the SportStyle Apparel unisex range will be showcased to complete the look.

The Shoe Trial and Activity Hub

For the first time, ASICS SportStyle GEL-NYC™ 2.0 shoes will be available for visitors to try and participate in our series of workshops curated to celebrate art, music and movement in comfort. Additionally, vistors can also partake in exclusive activities such as the style cam to embark on a 3-step scent ritual to create bespoke scent, with PAÑPURI.

Discover The Code of Comfort, globally and regionally

This season, explore The Code of Comfort: A new cinematic universe where footwear is designed not only for performance, but for comfort, happiness, and emotional energy. Because movement is not defined by speed or distance alone, but by the feeling of being truly alive.

A Global Campaign Series

Directed by Toshiki Yashiro, the story unfolds through two scientists, Hakase and Mitani, who encounter an unexpected phenomenon: the “Joy Meter” reaching unprecedented levels. This surge is traced back to individuals across Japan experiencing moments of joy through everyday movement while wearing the latest ASICS SportStyle models. From a janitor effortlessly stepping into rhythm in the GEL-NYC™ 2.0, to a dance game enthusiast moving fluidly in the GEL-KINETIC™ 2.0, to a group of dancers expressing themselves freely in the GEL-CUMULUS™ 16—each story reveals a different expression of movement, blending humor with a deeply human perspective. Across six narratives, the film gradually uncovers the essence of The Comfort Code.

Regional Additions

Adding on to this campaign series are six different narratives featuring our regional cast including TH actress Taew Usa Semkhum and producer Eknaree ‘Be’ Wachirabunjong, Singaporean actor Tyler Ten and more.

• A young-at-heart Grandma and her granddaughter
• An office worker
• Chapteh Boys
• Street Dancer
• Elevator Strangers
• The TukTuk Traveller

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(Video) Singer D4vd Officially Charged With First-Degree Murder Of Teen Found In His Car

Days after his arrest for his alleged involvement in the murder of a missing teenager, the District Attorney’s Office has formally charged singer D4vd. The musician is charged with murder, along with charges of sexual abuse and mutilation.

On 20th April 2026 (Monday), D4vd appeared at a Los Angeles courtroom for his arraignment in the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas. The 21-year-old, whose real name is David Anthony Burke, faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, sexual abuse with a child under the age of 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains.

SOURCES: TWITTER (@PopBase)

@abcnews

The Los Angeles County district attorney announced a first-degree murder charge against singer D4vd on Monday in connection with the death of a 14-year-old girl, Celeste Rivas Hernandez. He faces a maximum sentence of life, without the possibility of parole, prosecutors said.

♬ original sound – ABC News – ABC News

When announcing the charges against D4vd, L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said the criminal complaint includes special circumstance allegations, including murder of a witness, murder for financial gain and lying in wait. He revealed that Celeste was a witness in an investigation into the singer for “lewd and lascivious sexual acts” with a person under 14.

Authorities also speculated that D4vd killed Celeste to silence her and protect his music career. If convicted as charged, the singer could face life in prison without parole. Given the special circumstances in his charges, the R&B star could also face the death penalty. However, the DA’s office said it will decide whether to seek it on a later date.

D4vd’s defence attorney, Blair Berk, pleaded not guilty on his behalf during the arraignment. She reiterated his claim of innocence, saying, “We believe the actual evidence will show David Burke did not murder Celeste Rivas Hernandez. We would like to have the evidence come into the light of day.” At the end of the hearing, the judge ordered the singer to be held without bail.

@dailymailau

D4vd appeared emotionless during his first court appearance on Monday, as he wore a black sweatshirt and gray sweatpants. The suspect did not make eye contact with people in the room, which included the victim’s family, as his attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. The severity of the first-degree murder charge makes the singer, 21, eligible for the death penalty if he is convicted. He is currently being held in prison with no bail. Read more at the link in bio. #crime #usa #d4vd #news#fyp

♬ Creepy and tense horror ambient(857662) – MANURE SOUND

The investigation into Celeste’s murder began in 2025 after police found her decomposing body in an abandoned Tesla. The vehicle belonged to D4vd, who would later become a major suspect in the case. While the authorities kept many details of the investigation under wraps, netizens did their own sleuthing to discover that D4vd and Celeste were well-acquainted with each other.

Only time will tell how this court case will conclude. In the meantime, netizens have reacted to the news with mixed responses. While many believed that D4vd is guilty, some still expressed support for his innocence.

Sources: Rolling Stone, Al Jazeera

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BLACKPINK’s Lisa Becomes First K-pop Star To Headline A Las Vegas Residency

BLACKPINK’s Lisa is making history! Following the huge success of her debut solo album, “Alter Ego”, the superstar is set to become the first K-pop artist to play a Las Vegas residency. In November, Lisa will be bringing ‘Viva La Lisa’ to the Colosseum at Caesars Palace for two weekends. She’ll play on 13th and 14th November, followed by 27th and 28th November, 2026.

The residency caps a remarkable stretch for Lisa. Her first full-length album “Alter Ego” debuted at No. 1 on the Top Album Sales chart and in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200, powered by singles like “Rockstar”, “New Woman” featuring Rosalía, “Moonlit Floor (Kiss Me)” and “Born Again” with Doja Cat and RAYE. She also wrapped BLACKPINK’s “Deadline World Tour”, headlined Coachella as a solo act last year, and starred in HBO’s “The White Lotus”. Now, she’s bringing all of that momentum to The Colosseum.

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Lisa will join a starry roster of performers who have headlined Colosseum stints. Since the venue opened in 2003, stars who have had a residency there include Elton John, Mariah Carey, Cher, Shania Twain, Celine Dion, Usher, Adele and, most recently, Kelly Clarkson.

“Vegas, are you ready? VIVA LA LISA, coming November 2026,” Lisa captioned the post on her Instagram. “Presale details @wearelloud.” Alongside the caption, she shared a press shot of her for the residency, which features her holding a brown hand muff topless in black hot pants and tights.

The artist presale will be available from 22nd April from 1am (MYT), followed by a general on sale beginning on 23rd April at 1am (MYT) at Ticket Master.

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UNIQLO Launches “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” Collection To Celebrate New Nintendo & Illumination Film

To mark the release of Nintendo and Illumination’s “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” early this month, UNIQLO graphic T-shirt brand UT have launched “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” UT collection, featuring designs that highlight each character’s distinct personalities, with graphics that reflect the spirit of the film.

The line-up focuses on capturing the essence of the film’s narrative, which promises a blend of action, laughter, and emotional depth. Mario, Luigi, Toad, Yoshi, Bowser Jr., and Peach in their film adaptation form adorned the new collection of T-shirts. The range features the “UT” graphic T-shirt silhouette, maintaining the brand’s standard approach to media collaborations.

“The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” UT Collection T-shirts retail at RM59.90 for adults, and RM39.90 for kids. In addition, the line-up of sizes for adults and kids allows fans of all ages to enjoy coordinating outfits together.

Check out the collection below:

Items are available at all UNIQLO stores nationwide and online.

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